Name Game

It made my wife uneasy at the time and angry at me afterward but I just couldn't resist. Here's what happened: On our drive through Alabama in early January heading South to the Sunshine state, we stopped at a popular interstate truck stop that advertises (and rightly so) Alabama's best bar-b-q. As we entered the very crowded waiting area, I called out loudly, "Hey Bubba!" I couldn't count fast enough the number of heads that turned towards me as if answering my call out.

I later got to ponderin,' I wonder what other popular nicknames are found down South. I then began recalling nicknames from my past and many are unique; try adding to this list: always a 'Smitty,'  Blackie, Lumpy, Stump, Radar, Moe, Pud, Poochie, Memo, Skates, KeKe, Kizzie, Gunner, Skeeter, Dink, Pepper, Pookie, Kit, Shay-Shay, Pops, Mookie, Duke, Slats, Dizzy, Hoot, Buster, Dusty, Pick, Boofer, Doc, Buzz, Hot Chocolate, Thumper, Ping-Pong, Ollie, Cobby, Huge, Frog, and my all time favorite>>'Poo Poo' Harper.

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Name Game

Just Wish I was Smarter, Then I'd Be Sure

I read my Bible but I'll admit, I don't Study my Bible. I'm certain there are many ministers and Christian brothers and sisters who will read my acknowledgment and feel a need to weigh in with an opinion or response and I accept that; if I can't accept their responses then I should not write blogs, right?

 Here's what I've noticed. There are many biblical scholars and quasi biblical scholars who wish to interpret the scriptures for me. Interestingly, I've noticed many passages interpreted differently
by different scholars. Sometimes I find scripture-debates interesting but mostly, I find them a boring exercise in pompously perceived intellect.

I will give kudos to Internet googling on the matter of Biblical scripture research. I simply Google any aspect of life and request the Internet to send me to the appropriate scriptures and 'BINGO!'

I have taken inventory and can report that I have been associated with religion my entire 79-years and  I've been in a heart-felt 'faith-relationship with Jesus Christ for the past 67-years. During my journey, I've come to realize that there is two powers greater than anything in the world. Greater than money, greater than fame and greater than status. Those powers I reference are the powers of 'love' and 'hate.' Either of these, love or hate will consume you.

Now just because I'm not a Biblical scholar does not mean I'm a lost soul. Understand that I do have a simple Biblical Blueprint: what I've noticed about he Bible is this: From the book of Genesis through the book of Revelations (and books between) the Bible talks about two things: 1) Gods love for people and 2) peoples' need to love one another.

That's pretty much the deal. I'm not sure about you but as for me? Well, I could do much better up holding my part.
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It's About Love

She's a Hoot Alright

This is our fifth year wintering in heaven's waiting room known as Florida. I have met some truly nice couples with whom I visit occasionally. My wife seems to know everybody in this 35-homes culde' sac and they certainly know her. I have lost track of the number of people who may ask, "Is Gerry your wife?" When I affirm, I get follow ups i.e., "She's a sweetheart." "She's a hoot."

Gerry has always made friends easily. She is outgoing, unabridged and sincere. As they saying goes, "What you see is what you get." And then there was my father's description, "Gerry's as subtle as a punch in the nose." I will interject this cautionary warning; anybody mistaking her outward kindness and engaging manner for a person you could push over or criticize is in for a big surprise. I recall a few occasions when a basketball fan might go over the top with critical comments about her coach-husband or players. Woe betide to that individual. I will add that I never felt compelled to come to defense...if Gerry verbally tangled with a 'fanatic' that person was on his own and was not getting help from me.

There are two things that are essential to embrace when living with this little lady. One: Understand that she likes to touch things; everything. And usually touching is not enough, she must move the 'thing' to another location. This is problematic. My wallet and auto keys are are always placed in a  small container on op of our refrigerator, which is out of reach of the five foot-girl. Secondly, when Gerry enters a room it is wise to keep one eye on get as she moves about. I discovered this the hard way. I was on the treadmill in my downstairs den. I had the speed dial set on '4' which is a speed shy of requiring a jog but necessitating a brisk walk. As always, I'm watching a television program  that made time pass quickly. I was not focusing on Gerry who entered the room although I noticed she had a dust cloth in her hand.

Hustling along at my brisk-walking pace and engrossed on the conclusion of a television game-show, I suddenly felt the walking-belt beneath my feet kick into an unbelievable speed as the treadmill's motor noise increased. My feet flew-out from under my body as my face and torso positioned for a belly-flop! Gerry, in her dusting chore wiped her cloth across the treadmill's speed dial turning the speed to a number used by elite Olympic sprinters.

Yes sir, Buddy...she's certainly is a HOOT!
(Touch)She Makes Me Laugh

Let's All Take A Deep Breath and Relax

A couple of days ago, I posted on my Facebook page on the heels of the recent Kentucky Marshall County high school fatal shootings that we must examine our gun laws. Immediately, I was chastised with that empty (decorum) line, "this is NOT the moment to bring up the gun control issue." The inference therefore is one who mentions gun control at the time of gun violence is somehow 'out-of-bounds.' Really? My response...If not at that time then what time? I get a flu shot at the time of the flu season not in June. I call the firemen during a fire.

 I've noticed many counter arguments against the gun control issue becomes a less than funny and very transparent, 'Who's On First' routine. Examining where we are with gun laws and enforcement does not automatically take away anybody's second amendment rights...at ease, folks, at ease. Like it or not, we are all living together in these violent times.

Actually, when I step back and attempt to absorb the larger picture, I note an escalation in bad driving manners, which often becomes road rage. I hear vulgar words describing women. I read vicious comments towards people on Facebook. The public discourse by any measurement has dipped to new lows as common courtesy takes flight in a society that has lost all innocence. It appears that if we disagree on issues, we quickly go into an attack mode. Given these tendencies, I am inclined to believe things get worse as a nation of people become more angry over views and subsequently engage in more physical confrontations. It is clear to me that Americans are generally more angry, more intolerant and owning more guns than ever before, well, you can hide your head in the sand but I find this to be a frightening recipe for violence. Perhaps we all need to be 'put in time out.'

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We Can Just Disagree.

Don't Forget To Pray

You've seen the message. It's on yard signs throughout the nation, on bumper stickers and on   billboards. The sign reads: "Pray For Our Nation." The message-plea resonates with me and I would guess it strikes a chord with all 'believers' everywhere. I 'get' the message and I am motivated to take action but I'm stymied. Pray for OUR Nation? Pray for whom? Pray for what?

Whether you wish to accept it or not, we all are much like the late humorist and social commentator, Will Rogers who famously said, "All I know is what I read in the papers and that's an alibi for my ignorance." Now you ask, what's that got to do with 'pray for our nation?' Well, I'll tell you...I'm perplexed. Before I petition my Lord in prayer should I not speak to something specifically? If the answer is yes then what shall I believe before formulating my prayer request? Consider...

I am told that most media outlets are manufacturers of 'Fake News.' I know that it is also documented that the Internet news stories can be untrue. It would thus appear that I should pray for truth to invade America.

As I wait for the truth-ship to dock...Perhaps, I should just pray for you and ask you to pray for me.

(Touch)Pray for you; Pray for me.

Just An Observation

It all began with that now infamous 'black-balled' NFL quarterback, Colin Kaepernick. You know the fella, the one that started 'taking a knee' during the National Anthem to protest what he believes is more than occasional police cruelty towards African -American motorists. Soon Kaepernick had a brotherhood of support as other African-American NFL players began kneeling during the Anthem.

Of course, instead of allowing the social protest to run a course some people had to 'defend' our flag and suddenly we had an issue. The military, which defends our flag, our nation and even the peoples' rights to kneel during the Anthem, was used as pawns in our national debate. (Please stop and read: I would ask all who wish to 'go-off ' on me at this moment know that I stand for the anthem and I would like Prayer in school. That said, I want Methodist prayer in school...is that okay with you of other religions?)

Soon President Trump saw an opportunity to play to his base as he began speaking at rallies suggesting that NFL owners should "fire that son-of-bitch," any  NFL player kneeling during the  Anthem.

As the debate heated up, I noticed many Facebook posts encouraging the boycotting of the NFL  games. You all saw them.
I did not track the success of that boycott-movement but I have heard a report that a week from this Sunday over 100 million Americans will watch the televised NFL Super Bowl and if you still wish to attend the game in person, you can buy the cheapest online ticket for $4,500.00...or you can boycott at no cost and watch a good Hallmark Movie. Just be happy with your choice.
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Happy Trails

I've Gone to the Dogs...my entire life.

As long as I can remember, which goes back nearly seventy-five years, I have been associated with a dog. The very first dog was 'Pal,' who was my mother's pet when she was still a youngster in her parents' home. Later there was Zipper, Skippy, Peggy, Duke, Duchess, Fritz, GiGi, Konigin (German for Queen), Rueben, Gizmo, Percy and now Yodie. I'm sure my recall is compromised by artery issues, therefore suffice to say, I likely missed a pup's name.

As a young boy, my relationship with my dogs was daily and conversational in nature. I did all the talking but I noticed it was easy because they were such great listeners. Somehow each dog appeared to understand completely what I was saying and always sided with my viewpoint, especially those times when I felt betrayed by friends or unnecessarily punished by parents.

During my working years, I admit that I took my dogs for granted. Oh, they always greeted me with their same loyal enthusiasm but I seemed preoccupied with a myriad of  'I gotta do's.' Now that I am a full-blown retiree, my time has pretty much become my dog's time. The day begins with Yodie nudging his nose up under my chin at approximately 6AM and we hit the potty trail. We do a considerable amount of outdoor bench and swing sitting together as I ponder past, present and future and he scopes out intruding critters. We eat at the same times each day and take walks together. I find myself talking to Yodie as I did to those many pups years ago. While wintering in Florida, I spend  more time with Yodie than anybody else...I like it like that and he seems to enjoy the arrangement.

Yodie will likely be the last of the Pups and that is fine with me as long as we both get off the train about the same time. Should he wish to ride a bit longer, I've arranged the necessary 'take care of my buddy' contract agreement. There's a few more things I'd like to tell you about Yodie and me but right this minute he has a rubber duck in his mouth and is raking his back leg while growling at me...
It's time to play!
(Touch)Old Shep

Live in the Moment

This Florida sunshine begs for more 'outside sittin and ponderin.' We older travelers may be subjected  to more ponderin' about the past and fearful ponderin' about the future...both are sad, foolish and ungrateful. Don't interpret that wrong. I have wonderful memories of family, friends and players I coached and I cherish those reminiscent recalls. I just need to be careful not to live only for those yesterdays. On the opposite end of that ponderin' tangent is 'what's in store for me; how much time remains.' Since I have absolutely no control over that answer, I ask myself, 'why go there?'

My, my, I cannot begin to count the wonderful people who have come into and out of my journey. Obviously, some remain to various degrees while most did not. I still have fond memories of all.
There were so many times when I wished I could freeze-time but I knew better. I recall the first time that I wished for that stand still moment. I was nine years old (1948) and seated next to my father in old Sportsman's Park watching the St. Louis Cardinals playing the Brooklyn Dodgers. I remember vividly closing my eyes between an inning and wishing that the moment and night could last forever. Oh, there were so many times in this old man's journey that I had a similar wish moment. There was a 12-year period from 1968-to-1980 when all three of our children were home and tucked into nightly beds safe and sound. I wished that those years would last forever. Oh sure, I had some basketball teams that were so enjoyable to coach that I wanted to freeze that moment but seasons begin and seasons end just as every journey. Too much ponderin' of the past or future rob me of the 'now.'

There's a saying: "Life is a journey not a destination." Focus upon, enjoy and celebrate 'the journey.'

I shall ponder a bit about yesteryear and I shall and ponder about tomorrow's eternity with my Lord, however considering the gift of life today, I shall embrace those 'now blessings' and plan to serve somebody someway....and besides, I got to make plans for next Thanksgiving's Decatur Basketball Tournament and hopefully get closer to finishing this book.
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Live in The Moment

Some Things Are Obvious

I do not pretend to fully understand the political nuances impacting the people of America. In my lifetime, I've heard the accusations from the left that Republicans are anti-social programs while the Conservatives scream about a government that is 'too big.' I truly wish I was capable of knowing the solutions needed for a nation of people...it's complicated at best.

I do know insincerity and leadership impotency when I see it and Donald Trump is the poster child.
Considering the profound negative impact of a government shutdown on 850 thousand government working-families and thousands of everyday Americans depending on seriously needed services, some of which can be characterized as life sustaining, I find it true to Trump's self-centered narcissistic fiber as he tweets the following: "On the one year anniversary of my presidency, the Democrats wanted to give me a nice gift."

                 ONCE AGAIN Everybody's Life's JOURNEY IS ABOUT TRUMP
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Unleashed Vanity 

'Buck Up Betty.'

Likely as most folks, I have held a consistent attitude regarding good manners and respect for women. I truly believe 'mom' is our greatest gift. I open doors for women. I suppose I feel this way and do such things due to 'how' I was raised by my parents and growing up in the 1940's & 1950's cultural climate. That said, I've kept pace with women's journey toward equality in our society and in particularly the work place. Footnote: Eight granddaughters? Why would I not champion women's causes?

Very recently, I made the comment to my wife that I've noticed outstanding insight from well versed females in the media coverage of sports and politics. Obviously, when women are given the opportunities they are more than capable of delivering. My response? Hi, hip hooray! Now give them equal perks and pay.

The aforementioned on record, I request your attention to the following. If a school district permits a girl to participate on the boys' teams they do not play under special protective or watered-down rules.
Please, shall we distinguish between playing by the same rules versus being treated disrespectfully by crude and offensive comments. Okay, let's make the distinctions: During the Republican Presidential 'Primary' campaign, Donald Trump made disrespectful and ignorant remarks when he said about Carly Forina, "Look at that face. Who would vote for that face for our next President?" And about debate moderator, Megyn Kelly, Trump said, "She was bleeding from somewhere.?" Those are  unacceptable and personal vulgar attacks.

In the workplace arena everybody should understand that the gloves are off as we give equal rights to both genders. That said, when Senator Corey Booker ripped into Homeland Security Chief, Kristen Nielsen for her 'selective recall' of President Trump's reported use of vulgar language describing African countries, he should not be critized for his verbal attack of Nielsen. Nielsen and other women who seek jobs and equality in the workplace cannot have it both ways; the equality yet the softer playing rules.
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She is Woman

It's a Woman's World

I woke from a sound sleep and dream last night because a bunch of my couple friends were laughing at me. Let me explain the dream:
My wife and I were both going to heaven. An Angel met us at the heavenly-gates and took us into a room, which the Angel said was a 'processing room.' As soon as we entered the room, we were greeted by all the couple friends we ever had on earth. It was a wonderful moment reuniting with all our old friends. Soon another Angel enter the room and began giving instructions. The second Angel told all the men who were the 'head' of their households to form a line on the right side of the room. The Angel then told men that if their wife was 'head' of the household they should form a line up on the left side of the room.

All the guys began scurrying about and soon the lines were formed. I looked about the room and noticed that I was the ONLY man standing on the 'right side line.' All the other men were in a line on the left side. At that moment, the Angel walked to me and spoke, "Mel why are you the only man standing in the line suggesting you were head of your household?" I answered, "Because my wife told me to stand in this line." The laughter woke me from my Dream!
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A Woman's World

A Glimmer of Hope for Bi-Partisanship

The light may be faint and flickering but the candle remains lit. I'm speaking of the hope for future bi-partisanship in our two-party political system of governing. We recently witnessed strong Presidential leadership from Donald Trump when he charged a bi-partisan committee lead by Republican Senator, Lindsey Graham (SC) and Democrat Senator Dick Durbin (IL) to bring a immigration bill to him (Trump) and, "I'll sign it and take the heat for both Republicans and Democrats." This was the first indication of bi-partisanship agreement.

Senators Graham and Durbin took the President's charge, found compromise and returned to the President's office only to have their joint bi-partisan proposal blind-sided by conservative hard-liners and supported by alleged vulgar comments by the United States President.

Not to be disheartened, Senators Graham and Durbin continue to 'find' bi-partisan agreement. They have adamantly agreed that Homeland Security Chief Kirstjen Nielsen and Republican U. S. Senators Tom Cotton (AR) and David Perdue (GA) are BOLD-Faced liars along with President Trump.

I anticipate a call for an investigation of Lindsey Graham into the possibility that he is a Democrat plant disguised as Republican or a distant relative of Hillary Clinton. Sean Hannity or Rush will certainly get to the bottom of this conspiracy against our military, the American flag and unborn children. Meanwhile, are we not delighted about just 'How Great America' is becoming?
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Liars

Can We Be The Hero?

After church this past Sunday, my wife and I went to the 'Surf Hut Restaraunt,' which is uniquely situated less than seventy-yards off the Gulf water's edge on the beautiful Miramar Beach white sands. The Surf Hut is one of those seaside eateries that can open windows and thus embrace the patio and beach beauty ambiance. On this particular day the chill in the air found widows shut.

As soon the hostess seated us, I noticed a small bird near the back of the restaurant perched on the interior of the window with the obvious desire to be on the outside. The table alignment had me with no alternative but to be facing this bird's constant and frantic attempts to free himself from the noise and chaos of people passing by. Obviously, the bird had entered the premise at a time when windows were open on one of those Gulf breeze warmer days.

The bird's desired location was on the widow. As people passed by, he would dart to a safer place on high rafters. Soon there appeared to be a second bird caught up in the panic delimma, however on closer observation, I noted the second bird was on the outside appearing confused with his friend's incarceration. Both birds kept flying erratically from window to window, back and forth peering and pecking at each other.

I began reading the menu to change my focus but no matter how I tried, I kept returning to view this  small creature's compelling frustration. Finally, I beckoned my waiter. I pointed to the bird and suggested to him that the bird needed a hero...Then I asked, "Will you go open that widow or must  I?"
As the young waiter walked toward the window, once again the bird darted to the rafters. The waiter unlocked the window and began to pull down the upper frame when instantly the bird flew quickly to freedom.

Later that afternoon, my thoughts returned to the bird's predicament and just how we find people shackled and encumbered by some imprisonment. It may be a broken relationship, a financially paralyzed circumstance or perhaps an addiction. Whatever it is that may be keeping the person from breaking the chains and permitting 'freedom' to embrace life, we wonder if indeed we are missing the chance, the moment to act as the facilitator...God only knows, we have all needed our heroes.
(Touch)Freedom from Chains

When You Gotta Go...You Gotta Go.

A few days ago, I was seated in a beach chair near a boardwalk. Within a few minutes, I heard voices of three senior-ladies who were standing atop the boardwalk-stairs. Their conversation was rather loud and centered on the topic of 'Depends' and various types of protective panty-liners. I coughed and cleared my throat in an attempt to be heard and seen by the 'leaky-gals.' Interesting notation here: I've noticed that seniors become as young children...they are open, unabridged and care less about being embarrassed.

One lady's frustration seemed to be the disappearance of any 'warning' sensations while another gal complained that recently when she believes she's finished using the facility she only exits the restroom to begin 'dribbling.' At the moment, I thought this could be two men talking except men dare not share such physical dysfunctional issues. Actually, that is not 100% accurate because several years ago I was guest eating lunch at a Country Club and I heard four older guys, playing poker at a nearby table talk about erectile dysfunction pills. (I can't make this stuff up.) Anyway, two guys swapped out pills with one another. I suppose at a later card game they will share their 'research  findings.'

Back to the three gals on the boardwalk. The third gal weighed in with seemingly greater experience. Appears as though she has had a weak bladder all her life. She shared that once as a high school cheer leader, she did the splits and wet the floor considerably. She told her friends that at the next week's  game she noticed the spot of her accident had compromised the floor-finish. Fearing, I would laugh aloud, I quietly lifted my chair from the sand and moved down the beach. Shortly, my wife, who had been visiting at Panera's with a Decatur church friend joined me with her Beach chair. As she sat down she spoke, "If the sun 'stays open,' I might get a tan." With that comment, I nearly wet my pants.
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Gotta Go...You Gotta Go

No Prayer Dilemma Here

Yesterday morning, my wife and I were having a second cup of coffee and watching the television news. A college basketball game report was showing a female fan with hands folded and eyes closed. She was praying while a player was shooting a free thrown in the closing seconds of a tied game. When the news clip ended, my wife asked if I ever prayed for God's favor in one of my games coached. Combining nearly one thousand games coaching and another three hundred as a player, I can honestly say that I never once asked God's game-outcome favor. She admitted that she had prayed for some of my games and our son, Steve's games as a player and coach.

I've heard preachers and others offer the opinion that God is always listening to our petitions. Of course, He may not answer our prayers in the manner we are seeking...but He hears and cares for us.
I believe that and yet I placed boundaries on what I petitioned in prayer. Before every high school basketball game I coached, I said and shared openly with my team a prayer request. I thanked God for the freedoms in our nation that permitted such a sport moment. I thanked God for healthy young boys participating and asked that He keep all players free of injury during the competition. Funny thing but I was never challenged by any adversaries about offering 'prayer-in-a-public school.' Just before game tip off, I would whisper a personal prayer during the playing of the Anthem. That prayer was a gratitude prayer for a career with opportunities to mentor youth while asking that I do the right thing for kids and a program...never did I ask for a victory. I always believed the game outcome would go to the team who maximized their strengths and talents through preparation. Besides, who's God going to listen to and favor, the Catholic boy making the sign of the cross before shooting a free throw or the Methodist boy standing behind the shooter praying he'd miss?
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A Simple Prayer

Words of a White Nationalist

When the American President and leader of the free world calls nations of predominately dark skinned people 'shithole' countries and doubles down his racist attitude adding a footnote of encouraging immigration from predominately white countries, he does great damage to America.

Presidential CANDIDATE, Donald Trump made numerous hateful and coded racial comments. While seeking the office, Trump was perceived by the masses as speaking for himself. Today, when President Trump speaks 'words,' he speaks for America...the words are America's words. Under Trump's administration, we note an erosion of simple manners and acceptance of opposing views. Ugliness towards and intolerance for differences within people is becoming our new normal.

The pot as been stirred once again by this compassion-less American President. A President supported by 81% of white Christian evangelicals. Those people who sit in Sunday morning pews with smug feelings of a secured eternity and believing the poppycock lies of Dr. James Dodson who said, Trump is taking baby steps in his Christianity. These Evangelicals also embrace the hate rhetoric of Rev. John Higbee, Jim Baker and John Butler Book as they ignore the plea from our Lord who told us, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
(Matthew 25:40) We Christians must start 'walking-the-walk' or accept the reality...we are NOT   Christians as called upon in the aforementioned scripture.

Expect the 'family values' party lead by the likes of Paul Ryan and Mitch McConnell to remain silent about these flagrant comments. Also, anticipate an endless line of Republicans and Trump surrogates to come before microphones to defend this indefensible rhetoric and thereby paint themselves with similar stripes. They will also demonstrate their lack of American history knowledge, which strongly suggests most American people's heritage can be traced to 'shitholes.'

We (Americans) have known for sometime just 'who' Donald Trump is; that question has been answered...the unanswered question remains: Who are we Americans?
(Touch)The Way It Is

Blessed to be a Snowbird

I suppose one could call it 'The Unintentional Reunion.' I know those gathering are referenced by the locals as 'Snowbirds.' That's us, Northern old-timers invading the Florida Gulf Coastal region to escape the bitter winter cold and avoid its accompanying depression driven by dirty snow, brown grasses and barren trees.

This is the fifth consecutive winter that my wife and I have migrated to the Destin, Florida area and found cozy comfort in a neat cul-de-sac of some thirty-plus two and three story white cottage style homes, each trimmed in its own personalized pastel colors. I will guess that 90% of these homes are occupied by retirees who go nowhere without their four-legged family member. Two upsides to owning a dog when wintering amongst strangers; (1) you don't stay strangers very long because every body's 'walking the dog' and (2) walking & the act of bending to bag your dog's poop is better cardio-exercise for the seventy-something crowd than shoveling wet snow.

The four most visited conversational topics for the next two months will be: (1) kids (2) grandkids & greats (3) health issues and (4) eating places. The fact that most in our cul-de-sac are yearly returnees, we've become somewhat family; we know enough about each other to ask about 'the kids' and inquire about the latest medical procedure. (Note: Political topics are a no-no, which is in my best interest since me, the Chicago guy across the street and the black trash collector are the only Democrats in the neighborhood. Think about that for a moment).

As for my personal enjoyments and activities; my wife and I attend some very talent-laden  entertainment venues, engage a mid-week Bible Class and a Sunday 'Rock & Roll Church.'
Other than that, I'm working on a book idea and... 'walkin the dog.'
(Touch)This Snowbird Walks the Dog

Everybody's Got their own Opinion

In Medieval times the word 'piss' was not considered a vulgar word. In fact, the word 'piss' appears in the Bible.  The phrase, 'A pot to piss in and a widow to throw it out,' was an acceptable expression depicting the poor economic circumstance of the day. Before indoor plumbing, folks used a chamber pot in which, to urinate and then open a window to toss the waste into street gutters. Of course, some folks owned neither a pot nor had a window...therefore the origin of the saying.

Down through the centuries, people have used expressions and sayings to define situations. Many of those sayings find memorable slogans and politicians have forever advanced slogans, which are identifiable to their campaign promises. In the 1928 United States Presidential campaign, Republican candidate, Herbert Hoover's campaign slogan was "A chicken in every pot and a car in every garage." His Democrat opponent, Al Smith offered a rather questionable and perhaps an ill-advised nebulous slogan: "Make your 'wet' dreams come true." (Smith's slogan referenced the repeal of the 18th amendment, which prohibited alcohol sales, thus going from a 'dry' America to a 'wet' America).

In our most recent Presidential campaign the winning candidate's slogan was "Make America Great Again." Comparing this slogan to the 1928, "A chicken in Every Pot and a Car in every Garage," offers a glowing difference to "Make America Great Again." Everyone can conjure up a vision and taste of that chicken in the pot and imagine a auto in their garage, however on the other side just what the hell does a Great America look like if, indeed it looks differently than right NOW? With such an unclear non-descriptive picture of a Great America, we are each left to our own imagination. Personally, I think America would be great again if the following were part of the current landscape: (1) somebody pumping my gasoline (2) push-cart food vendors meandering through my neighborhood (3) newspaper boys hawking papers on street corners (4) male singers with a voice who held your attention instead of their penis (5) ass whoppings in the homes and expulsions in the schools (6) a movie date at the Fabulous Fox Theater (St. Louis) and a hamburger & Coke afterward for a total night's cost of five bucks...now we're talkin' when America was GREAT!

Understand..."Every body's got their own opinion and you know, I SURE got mine..."  Ray Charles
My America

What's Goin'' On?

Today's American politics is much like today's American weather...'unpredictable turbulence.'
West coast drought and winds aid wild fires' destruction to hundreds of thousands of acres, blizzard conditions, unique to Northern States devastates the East coast while Southern States hunker down during longer hurricane seasons all of which, mirrors the uncertainty of Mid-West tornadoes. On top of these inexact events, we pretend that global warming is not real and that earthquake, 'the Big One' will happen in another's lifetime.

On the political field, we currently have a President with no government service background who is worth 3.1 billion dollars aided by smart business investments and four bankruptcies, when investing was not so smart. A seventy year old fella with a background in television, beauty pageants, womanizing and marital divorces who was embraced and voted into the Oval Office by Evangelicals...if that ain't unpredictable then Mona Lisa was transgender.

In the wings, we hear rumors that another billionaire with zero government service is sending out political-weather-balloons to see if a personable African-American woman noted for giveaways might 'run' for that top political perch....Can you spell...'Oprah?'

I'm telling you folks, it's crazy out there in the 'Land of Red & Blue States!' Things are changing and becoming more unpredictable. Why just a few days ago, traveling  through the State of Alabama, I noticed (first time ever) debris/trash along Alabama 'The BEAUTIFUL' Interstate. Making matters truly unthinkable in this Deep South State is the fact that a Democrat  represens them in the U. S. Senate. Finally, I saw something just south of Montgomery that appeared sacrilegious to most B'ama Bubba's...there along I-65 was a large sports complex with as many soccer fields as football fields. I could not be more shocked than if somebody had informed me that Judge Roy Moore was hired as a Mall Security Cop!
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What's Goin' On?

From Sea to Shinning Sea

Winding through Alabama's southern back-roads offers interesting observations to this writer. Left behind remnants of cotton balls from July's harvest tweaks a recall of that grade school American history book with photos of slaves working the fields...I could briefly imagine the stories that could emerge from those fields.

There is great similarities of poverty between areas of the Deep South and Northern inner cities.  The obvious difference in those two economic blights is concentration. The inner cities of Detroit and East St. Louis are openly easily seen by the drive-by observer while much of the southern countryside is hidden by tree lines of thick Pines. As is the case everywhere, poverty touches all colors and ethnicity.

There is also a current civics/sociology lesson being played in the Deep South. Protest is alive and juiced along Southern back roads just as it is in America's NFL stadiums and 'flags' serve as the lightning rod. Many Black NFL players refuse to stand during the presentation of the American flag and our National Anthem. These men are thus using the first amendment to respond to a perception of unfair police treatment upon Blacks. The Deep South finds The Confederate flag flaunting those 'United' States with a pride in the South's lost war against its desire to hold fast to slavery or secede from the Union.

One side by side yard sight truly captured my attention and spoke to both America's history and hope. A black man and white man were visiting at the roadside of their adjacent lanes. They were retrieving trash cans. In both yards were American flags and in one yard was a Marine Corps flag. The Marine Corps flag signals and anchors those Constitutional rights of all..."from-sea-to-shinning-sea."

Oh...you probably wish to know which gent's yard flew the Marine Corps flag...it appeared to be the yard of the guy with the prosthetic leg.
(Touch)Sea-to-Shinning-Sea

Insulting Crazy Talk

Remember former United States Senator from Pennsylvania, Rick Santorum? Today, Rick is serving as a political analyst appearing on television answering questions to the best of his ability to protect the Conservative Brand of the GOP. Santorum is a smart enough fella but his frequent facial smirks before answering a question belie his true convictions as he attempts to defend or explain President Trump.

Often times, Santorum's answers are illogical. Example: Recently, Santorum was trying to punch holes in 'special counsel' Robert Mueller's Trump-Russian investigations. Santorum, speaking about Special Counsel Mueller's investigation, said and I paraphrase: 'Special counsels such as Robert Mueller are charge to investigate something specifically but then get on a mission to find some crime, any crime that they can prosecute.' Santorum continued, "That's wrong; if the person being investigated is not guilty of the crime for which he's being investigated then game-over...no other crime charges should be sought. I'm sure the Trump supporters agree.

Using Santorum's logic that means when a policeman is told by his superior to stake out a roadway to look for and arrest speeders, the police officer can only charge the driver with speeding; that's his 'charge,' focus and purpose. The officer must ignore the illegal drugs under the front seat, the illegal gun in the glove compartment and the dead body in the trunk.

 This is the logic that comes from the Republican Party... a Party that writes a tax-cut bill within a forty-eight hour period in a secretive place and passes the bill quickly. Then a week later that same party talks bipartisanship on infra-structure and other possible legislation. Oh, and in keeping with this party's closer walk with our Lord's teachings, the GOP now holds the heads of 'Dreamers' under the guillotine threatening deportation if the Democrats don't agree to funding an 18 Billion dollar Mexican border wall, which Mexico's going to pay for anyway. Can't wait for Rick Santorum and Kelleyanne Conway explain it.

Rick Santorum talks almost as 'crazy' as does Kelleyanne Conway.
(Touch)Crazy Talk

No Friend of Mine

The other evening, I was perusing Facebook when one of those pop-ups appeared. This one announced that three people had 'unfriended' me on Facebook and therefore asked me if I wished to find out who these folks are. The announcement went on to assure me that I should not be offended by this event because "it happens all the time to everybody." I was offered steps to follow if I wanted to pursue investigation into 'lost' friends. I opted out of that 'feather chasing' invitation and instead went to the kitchen drawer, took out a butcher knife and was just about ready to stick it through my ear when my wife entered the room and said, "Wax in your ears, again?" She foiled the attempt!

I ask the question: Why the hell would I want to know who 'unfriended' me on Facebook?! I can absolutely guarantee you that I DID NOT request their friendships to begin with; take that to the bank! Secondly, need I remind anyone that which I did for thirty-nine years? I chose coaching high school youth (peoples' children), which begs the question: Don't you need friends?

Folks, I've been blessed by God. I married up. I have a dog. That said, see you on Facebook or 'NOT.'Ain't No Friend of Mine

Because They Said So!

Today's blog is not a 'finger-pointing' rant but rather an observation. Those of my generation may recall the charge from our parents, which was a simple proposition: 'children are to be seen and not heard.' Taken out of context that parenting approach appears to be rather harsh and not very nurturing. If I was going to be in adult company, my parents were explicit with engagement guidelines. I was told to be polite, answer yes, no and use proper terms, i.e., thank you, please and excuse me. Plain and simple, if my parents were conversing with other adults, I was never to offer a comment or opinion unless answering a direct question. Believe it... I learned much just listening.

The aforementioned are no longer the rules. Dr. Benjamin Spock introduced a new parenting style in the late 1940's and by the 1960's mommies and daddies were on board with the 'warm, parent-buddy approach.'

Parents today encourage children to express their feelings in the public domain...it's okay. The trade off seems to be children adopting a less respective attitude towards adults and embracing a more dangerous perceived 'equality with adults' void of the consideration and appreciation for age, experiences, or knowledge. Wisdom becomes an obsolete priority trait.

We then ask the question: Has society, at large benefited or been disadvantaged from these changing parental strategies? If at a very young age, children are encouraged to concern themselves with their 'feelings' is there a risk that young people become more self-indulging and self-centered while less tuned to the world about them and the needs or feelings of 'others?' As a stated at the top...not indicting a generation just pointing out a parenting change, which is undeniable.
(Touch)Do As I Say

Coach: We Need Red & Black Jordan's !

Recently watching two high school basketball teams in pre-game warm ups, I noted how much the uniform styles and footwear have changed over the years. Gone are the short pants (trunks) exposing entire legs; today, we have the baggy shorts with a hemline below the knees. The jersey top has not changed much through the decades except when altered by National Federation 'rules changes' in such matters as letter and number size and location or some bogus issue about as swoosh tail on school mascot names. You need not guess the reasoning...kickback monies and perks from sporting goods manufacturers. Uniformity in team begs for matching shoe apparel and that can be problematic for a coach if he's not on top of some subliminal factors. Personally, I would not permit different shoes worn by players. Do we not agree that most teenagers like recognition? A basketball,player can be tempted to step out of the uniformity look when permitted to select his own basketball shoe. Suddenly, you have socio-economic statements being made and that can be a 'team-unity' deal-breaker. I was always cognizant of those peripheral factors that could erode 'togetherness.' On that issue, I did not permit players to opt out of returning home on the team bus with his mates by driving back with parents. I insisted we'd prepare together, play together, travel together and process outcomes together.

The basketball shoe industry, perhaps more than any other industry has done a superb marketing job. In the 1980's, players were captivated by the name brand/pro endorsed basketball shoe. This was mind-boggling to a guy who played his high school and college careers in $9.95 Chuck Taylor All   Stars canvass tennis shoes. The team-shoe cost could break the sport's budget with cost of $95-to- $150 per pair. I seized the opportunity to ease the money crisis while keeping team uniformity, pleasing the players (somewhat) and teaching a valuable lesson. I conducted a free thrown fund-raiser. Every player was required to secure twenty pledges for 300 free throws shot. The money raised would consistently be near $3,000.00. I'd never let the players buy the Cadillac shoe but the next most desirable because they only had 50% of that three thousand to spend. The other $1,500.00 was given to The Muscular Dystrophy Association. I was going to teach my players that you don't always think of self but there is a good feeling when you 'give.' We did that fund-raiser for ten years. I remember one year the MDA telephoned me and insisted we had to give 100% of raised monies to MDA if we were 'using' their name. I told them I would contact the America Heart Association. I'll be damn if the MDA didn't change their mind. It's not only teens who can be selfish.
(Touch)Now Those are Sharp Shoes

The 'Peeing Contest' Continues

Americans have come to understand that North Korea's Dictator, Kim Jong-un is unstable. The man makes bizarre statements and off-the-cuff threats. We also know that our own President (Trump) has a real problem not being recognized as 'having-the-biggest.' Recall how Trump was obsessed with claiming that his inauguration crowd was bigger than Obama's crowd?  Surely, you remember when, during the Republican primary campaign another candidate referenced the smallness of Donald's hands suggesting Trump's penis was likewise small? Well, Trump had to comment several times later that he 'had no problem in that area,' as if anybody gives a rat's ass!

Fast forward to yesterday. Kim Jong-un boasted that North Korea has a nuke capability that can reach the United States' inland. Later, Kim stated that his nuclear button is on his desk at all times. Our seventh-grade response from Donnie was not unexpected although somewhat short of a Statesman's rhetoric, "I too have a nuclear button that is bigger and more powerful and my button works." Sound like another penis brag? This man is childish and embarrassing.

Reminds me of an incident in 1950. I was an eleven year old fifth grader at Woodrow Wilson Grade School, East St. Louis. During the day Freddie Stimpson and Billy Eckstone had been fussing at each other. During the afternoon recess, Billy screamed at Freddie, "My dad's bigger than your dad and he could beat up your dad." Trump's National Anthem: 'My Dog's Bigger Than Your Dog.'
(Touch)My Dog's Bigger Than Your Dog

How Smart Must One Be To Live in Oklahoma?

A few years ago, Decatur floated a school bond referendum, which would increase the sales tax for all of Macon County. I became more than a bit irritated with folks who told me they were voting against the proposal because, "My kids are out of school." I told a few who embraced such logic that they were narrow-minded and selfish. They appeared dumbfounded when I asked, "Who paid for your kids' public school education?"

Fact: Funding for America's public schools' classrooms continues to shrink at an alarming rate. Several 'Red-States' where Republicans have delivered on tax cutting promises have seen those 'cuts' take hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue away from childrens' educational opportunities. So much for the wonders of smaller government!

One State facing public education funding woes is Oklahoma. By golly never let it be said that 'Sooners' can't skin the cat. Ninety-six Oklahoma school districts have reduced school attendance requirements from five days to four days a week as a cost saving measure. That number (96) is growing. Hot damn, those districts can now reduce cost for the already the lowest paying profession (teaching) even more...and just think how the teacher shortage will escalate. Oklahoma's four-day school districts can lay off some bus drivers, custodians, maintenance and secretaries. Trickle down economics at its best, folks. America's priorities ranking: (1) Money (2) Tailgating (3) education.

I suppose if this four-day measure falls short of the envisioned 'bottomline' figure the Okies could chop off another day and go three days a week. Just make sure Friday is one of the days 'in school' because that's football pep-rally day.
(Touch)What a Wonderful World

A Prayer for You

To each who read these words this first day of the Year 2018. I wish you God's blessings. May your relationship with God serve you in all times and may your relationship with others be a testimony of caring goodwill and love for all who share this journey.

Happy New Year
(Touch)
God Bless and Keep You